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Summer Traffic Congestion

Record numbers of vehicles have entered these parks recently. In summer, on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day, long lines of cars have extended from the entrance stations. On a few of the busiest days, cars have waited over an hour to get through. Parking in some areas has also become crowded.

Campgroundsfill early and often. Make a reservation or other arrangements as soon as possible.

Once in the Parks

Congestion on roads and in parking lots is heaviest in Grant Grove (Kings Canyon National Park) and in the Giant Forest (Sequoia National Park). It is especially heavy on weekends.

Parking lots near popular features often fill by noon, and sometimes earlier. In Sequoia National Park, ride free shuttles from larger parking areas to avoid waiting for parking. In Giant Forest, park at the overflow lot at Wuksachi Lodge and ride free shuttles to the Sherman Tree and locations throughout Giant Forest.

Store food properly as soon as you arrive, especially at campgrounds and picnic areas. Increased bear activity this year means food storage is extremely important. Use metal food storage boxes to store food and all scented items wherever they're available. If there are no boxes, keep food and scented items in your trunk. At picnic areas, keep all food within arm's reach.

Do not stop or park on any plants. Along roadsides, park only in designated paved turnouts and pull off the road completely.

During days of heavy traffic, park rangers may temporarily divert you away from certain parking lots.

Summer Shuttle Options

The Sequoia Shuttle runs from Visalia to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park (via Hwy 198). The $15 cost includes your entrance fee (reservation required).

Once in the parks, free shuttles will take you from the Giant Forest area to Lodgepole, Wuksachi, Dorst Campground, and back during the day. Driving your own car from site to site increases traffic congestion. Shuttles are free and most operate from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Please check the park newspaper or website for up-to-date shuttle information and times.

On weekends and holidays, Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road is closed to personal vehicles. Access that area by shuttle, bicycle, or on foot. On weekdays, even though the Moro Rock / Crescent Meadow Road is open to cars, parking is extremely limited. Please consider parking your car at Giant Forest Museum or another parking lot and riding the shuttle into that area.

Important Details for Planning Shuttle Trips

No shuttle or public transit operates between Giant Forest and Grant Grove; Potwisha and Giant Forest; or Grant Grove and Cedar Grove. There is no shuttle or public transit within Kings Canyon National Park. Also, no shuttle goes to Crystal Cave. If you have a cave ticket, be careful about using the shuttle close to your tour time in case it causes you to miss your tour.

We appreciate your patience and understanding. We are working to adapt to growing visitation and applaud your great choice to visit your national parks These parks make great fall, winter, and spring destinations, too!